Pinworm

Alternative names:

enterobiasis Enterobius vermicularis; Enterobius vermicularis ovum or ova; oxyuriasis; pinworm infection; seatworm; threadworm

Treatment:

A medication to kill the worms is prescribed. Pyrantel pamoate, Mebendazole (typically a single dose treatment) Pyrvinium pamoate, and Piperazine are some of the medications that may be prescribed.

Some authorities feel that treatment is unnecessary, because the infestation rarely causes problems and reinfestation is likely. Measures to completely eliminate infestation within a family involve treating each family member and retreating in two to three weeks.

General measures to control infestation are washing hands before meals and after use of the toilet, keeping fingernails short and clean, laundering all bed linen twice weekly, and cleaning toilet seats daily. Avoid scratching the infected area (area around the anus) as this contaminates the fingers and everything else that they subsequently touch. Keep hands and fingers away from the nose and mouth unless they are freshly washed. Carry out these measures while family members are treated with medication.

Expectations (prognosis):

Pinworms cause little damage and can be eradicated easily with proper treatment. Full recovery is expected.

Complications:

• salpingitis (extremely rare)
• worms may enter the peritoneal cavity through the female genital tract (extremely rare)
• vaginitis
• emotional disturbance
• reinfestation

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of pinworms develop or you have seen pinworms on you child or in the bedding.